Modifications

Following the entry of a Final Judgment of Dissolution or Paternity, there may come a time when some provisions need to be modified. Only certain aspects of a Final Judgment are eligible for a possible modification. These include child support, the schedule of shared time with children and other parenting plan provisions, and some forms of alimony.

For child support modifications, the Florida Child Support Guidelines may provide the basis for proving a substantial change in circumstances upon which a modification of an existing child support order may be granted. However, the difference between the existing monthly obligation and the amount provided for under the guidelines shall be at least 15% or $50, whichever amount is greater, before the court may find that the guidelines provide a substantial change in circumstances.

A determination of parental responsibility, a parenting plan, or a time-sharing schedule may not be modified without a showing of a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances and a determination that the modification is in the best interests of the child.